Beira Baixa municipalities oppose renewable energy acceleration zones plan

The Beira Baixa intermunicipal community (CIM) has formally opposed the government's draft plan for Renewable Energy Acceleration Zones, warning it could disproportionately burden the region. Its main objections include the lack of maximum occupation limits, poor alignment with municipal land-use plans, and no assessment of cumulative impacts from existing energy infrastructure. In some municipalities, the zones would cover between 4% and over 35% of local territory, adding to already extensive dams, solar and wind farms, and power lines. The CIM demands a municipality-by-municipality review, local veto power over projects, and guaranteed lasting benefits such as jobs and lower energy costs for residents.